Lemongrass tea is a caffeine-free tea that has a citrus aroma and taste. It is an invigorating herbal tea. Learn more about it including the health benefits and how to steep it.
What is Lemongrass Tea?
Lemongrass is a tropical plant (Cymbopogon citratus) that is native to Southeast Asia. It is now cultivated in many parts of the world with a warm climate for it to thrive. This plant has green long, narrow leaves and can grow up to about 4 feet tall.
It is common to use lemongrass as an ingredient in recipes to add a zesty citrus flavour especially in dishes like soups and curries.
Lemongrass tea can also be made by steeping dried or fresh lemongrass stalks in hot water.
Where to Buy
If you would like to purchase fresh lemongrass, start by looking in the produce section of the grocery store. It is commonly found in Asian grocery stores, too.
Cut and dried lemongrass for tea can be easily purchased online, loose or tea bag form. It is common to find lemongrass blended with other ingredients like chamomile or ginger. So, be sure to buy one that is pure lemongrass only.
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Lemongrass Tea Health Benefits
Lemongrass is a good source of vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial. It has antibacterial properties, it may support digestive and oral health and the soothing qualities of lemongrass can promote calmness.
As always, please note that you should always consult a medical professional before taking any herbs for health purposes. Certain herbs, like lemongrass, may not be safe to consume during pregnancy.
How to Make Lemongrass Tea
To prepare this herbal tea you will need:
- Water: Freshly boiled (100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Lemongrass Tea: Fresh or dried lemongrass, chopped. Approximately 2-3 grams per 8 ounces. If you don’t have a food scale to measure the weight, you can use 1 tablespoon.
- Teaware: Teapot and/or mug with infuser basket or tea strainer
- Optional: Sweetener
Step-by-Step Instructions
Find a printable recipe card below with the full measurements and directions, too!
Step 1:
Before steeping, warm the teapot or mug, depending on which teaware you are using. To do so, add hot water to it, swirl around carefully and discard.
Step 2:
Add fresh or dried lemongrass to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour freshly boiled water over the tea, cover the teapot or mug and steep for 5 minutes.
Step 3:
If using a teapot, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose lemongrass. If using an infuser mug, simply remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
Step 4:
If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup of lemongrass tea and stir until dissolved. Enjoy!
Lemongrass Tea Variations
- Blend lemongrass with green tea or another option if you would like some caffeine.
- Steep with fresh or dried ginger for a warmth to complement the citrus flavour.
- Add a splash of fresh lime before drinking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does lemongrass tea taste like?
Lemongrass tea has a citrus flavour. The light yellow infusion is invigorating and zesty with a lingering sweetness.
Can I make iced lemongrass tea?
Yes. To make it iced, use double the amount of tea leaves when steeping so it is stronger then pour over ice to enjoy immediately. You can also cold brew lemongrass.
What other recipes can I make with lemongrass?
Try Lemongrass Chicken, Lemongrass Curry and Lemongrass Squares for dessert.
Lemongrass Tea
Ingredients
- 2-3 grams Lemongrass Tea
- 1 cup water freshly boiled
- 1 teaspoon sweetener of choice optional
Instructions
- Before steeping, warm the teapot or mug, depending on which one you are using. To do so, add hot water to it, swirl around carefully and discard.
- Add fresh or dried lemongrass to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour freshly boiled water over the tea, cover the teapot or mug and steep for 5 minutes.
- If using a teapot, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose lemongrass. If using an infuser mug, simply remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
- If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup of lemongrass tea and stir until dissolved. Enjoy!